Blackpool Transport has adopted the Ticketer TK300 ticket machine across its bus fleet, with 110 of those units having been deployed by the municipal operator.
They represent an upgrade from existing Ticketer machines. The TK300 is the supplier’s latest product and builds on previous strengths with enhanced features and functionality.
It has an eight-inch Android tablet as a driver console and a new card reader that accepts all major payment types including Amex.
Ticketer advises that both boot-up of the TK300 and contactless payment processing are rapid to reduce stop dwell times.
Speaking about the work, Blackpool Transport Finance and Commercial Director James Clough says: “The introduction of the latest Ticketer machines is part of our ongoing digital strategy to invest in our technology for the benefit of our colleagues and customers.
“We are looking forward to benefitting from the enhanced features to increase productivity for our drivers and provide a better user experience, while maintaining a streamlined boarding experience for our customers.”
Ticketer adds that the TK300 is futureproofed for future developments. That includes launch of a “voice solution” later in 2025 to facilitate two-way communication between drivers and controllers. That will be available only on the latest model via its driver console, microphone and speakers.
Recently appointed Chief Commercial and Operations Officer Adam Toone has thanked Blackpool Transport for its continued support, noting that rollout of the TK300 units “kicks off the next chapter in what has been a longstanding, innovative partnership.”
On future developments, Mr Toone says that many Ticketer customers have already upgraded to the new model and are benefiting from its additional capabilities.
“Looking ahead, those on our latest ETM can also soon choose to enable our upcoming voice broadcast solution’s powerful features,” he continues.
“It will not only facilitate more targeted, two-way communication between controllers and drivers, but also combat challenges that many operators currently using traditional radio systems face; namely, hardware and running costs, short frequency range, and interference. It is set to be a gamechanger for how our customers communicate.”
The TK300 is the same unit supplied to Transport for Greater Manchester for deployment on franchised Bee Network bus services in that region.
